Laughing Buddha riding an elephant, wood-carved sculpture, Thailand
There are so many deities in Asia. Most of them have rather serious faces, some bearing a really grim expression, and some looking simply terrifying. But there is one whose appearance would certainly cheer you up. I am talking about Laughing Buddha. This god has nothing godly about his look, he rather looks like a down-to earth guy: bald, aging, fat...and really happy.
Wood-carved Laughing Buddha, Thailand
Wood-carved sculpture of Laughing Buddha in a hotels in Nepal
Usually when people refer to "The Buddha" they are speaking of Siddhartha Gautama, an Indian prince who became the founder of Buddhism in 520 B.C.E. However, the Laughing Buddha is not the same person. Rather, the character is thought to be based on a historical personage, a wandering Buddhist monk who lived in China in the 10th century. He was known as being a bit eccentric but kind-hearted.
Laughing Buddha at the Lingyin Temple, Hangzhou China. Photo courtesy Nicolas Mirguet
Laughing Buddha sculpture at Dalat, Vietnam. Photo courtesy Matt Bishop
Laughing Buddha (and me) at a temple in Lumbini, Nepal
The Laughing Buddha is a symbol of happiness, kindness and innocent joy. He is thought to bring great wealth and was the patron saint of goldsmiths in medieval China. His round belly is seen as a physical represantation of his happiness and wealth, presumably reflecting the idea that he can afford to eat well and that he enjoys his food. It is said that if you rub his belly once a day you will increase your chances of sharing his good fortune.
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